Crime Stoppers began in 1976 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Greg McAleese, a police officer with the Albuquerque Police Department, became frustrated with an unsolved homicide. McAleese knew someone in the community probably had information which could solve the crime. In order to get that information, he had to overcome two obstacles: apathy and fear of retaliation. A reward, coupled with anonymity, could be the right incentive to overcome these obstacles.

Several area businessmen and other community leaders were contacted for support. The concept was greeted with enthusiasm, and several leaders committed themselves to support the project with financial contributions. The local media pledged its support.

The concept included reenactment of the crime, publicized as "Crime of the Week," with a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the murderer. Viewers were encouraged to call a number designated for that purpose. Two days after airing the "Crime of the Week," an anonymous caller supplied information leading to the arrest of two individuals, who were changed with the homicide. Thus, Crime Stoppers was born.